Miniature Linear Encoder does not require light source

Press Release Summary:

TRACKER(TM) position sensor is noncontact, magnetic unit suited for optical imaging stabilization and zoom in digital/phone cameras and binoculars. It does not require light source and is insensitive to external light. Operating from supply volage of 3-3.6 Vdc, on-chip encoder provides direct digital output using standard I2C protocol. It is offered in TSSOP or dice-on-foil versions as well as chip-on-board and miniature wafer-level chip scale packaging as small as 2.5 x 3.9 x 0.6 mm.


Original Press Release:

New Scale Announces Improved 0.5 µm Resolution, More Package Options for Its Miniature TRACKER(TM) Position Sensors

"World's smallest linear encoder" offers robust, precise positioning for miniature imaging systems, consumer electronics, precision biomedical devices, optical instrumentation and more. Victor, NY - May 28, 2009 - New Scale Technologies (www.newscaletech.com) today announced improved 0.5 µm resolution and additional packaging options for its miniature TRACKER(TM) position sensor. This robust non-contact sensor is ideal for applications such as optical imaging stabilization and zoom in digital cameras, phone cameras, binoculars and other optical devices. It is also suitable for a wide range of other applications including consumer electronics, precision biomedical devices, optical instrumentation, automation and automotive systems. In addition to the standard TSSOP or dice-on-foil versions, the TRACKER position sensor is offered in custom chip-on-board and miniature wafer-level chip scale packaging with footprint as small as 2.5 x 3.9 x 0.6 mm. The TRACKER is a high-resolution magnetic sensor with integrated, on-chip digital encoder. Significantly smaller than miniature optical encoders, it does not require a light source and is insensitive to external light. The on-chip encoder provides direct digital output using standard I2C protocol, eliminating the need for external pulse counters and enabling much smaller total system size. New Scale also offers custom position sensors with SPI or A-quad-B interface.

TRACKER Position Sensor Specifications o Resolution ........... 0.5 µm o Repeatability ........ better than 2 µm (bi-directional) o Supply voltage........ 3 to 3.6 VDC o Current .............. 21 mA o Output................ serial communications using I2C protocol - no pulse counter required o Dimensions............ 2.5 x 3.9 x 0.6 mm (chip-scale packaging) 8.5 x 11.5 x 1.61 mm (TSSOP on board) o End-of-magnet zero reference built in

Evaluation Packs, Pricing and Availability
For easy evaluation and system development, New Scale offers the TRK-1T02-E TRACKER evaluation pack with position sensor, magnet, interface board and software. In this kit, the TRK-1T02 TRACKER sensor is in a TSSOP package pre-mounted on a PCB, with a flex circuit connector for easy connection to the MC-31MB interface board. The interface board connects to a PC via USB, allowing users to easily read direct position information using the New Scale Pathway software. The user may also read position information directly from the TRACKER sensor via the I2C interface. The evaluation kit is available now for $350 from New Scale's online store: shop.newscaletech.com/productcart/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=8 For OEM pricing on TRK-1T02, TSSOP and dice-on-foil configurations, or for pricing on custom chip-on-board or wafer-level chip-scale packaging, contact New Scale at +1 585 924 4450 or email sales@newscaletech.com. About New Scale Technologies
New Scale Technologies (www.newscaletech.com) creates disruptively small motion systems based on our patented piezoelectric SQUIGGLE® motor, the world's smallest linear motor, and TRACKER(TM) position sensor. The ultrasonic SQUIGGLE motor is smaller, more precise, less expensive, more robust and more power-efficient than other micro motors. The TRACKER position sensor integrates a magnetic sensor with on-chip digital encoder, for smaller size and higher resolution than miniature optical encoders. We create complete motion systems integrating motor and sensor technology with supporting electronics (ASICs) developed with our partner austriamicrosystems. New Scale's micro motors, encoders and micro-actuator modules enable design engineers to create smaller products including mobile phone cameras, electronic locks and intelligent fasteners, nano-scale fluid control including lab-on-a-chip systems, medical devices including miniature drug pumps and endoscopes, optics and imaging systems, automotive modules, lasers, aerospace and defense systems, cryogenic and MRI-compatible instruments, and consumer electronics including micro fuel cells. SQUIGGLE is a registered trademark and TRACKER is a trademark of New Scale Technologies, Inc. Lisa R. Schaertl
New Scale Technologies, Inc.
121 Victor Heights Parkway, Victor NY 14564
Phone 585.924.4450 x113
Mobile 585.329.6869
www.newscaletech.com
lschaertl@newscaletech.com

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